There was a definite trip from the trailing athlete, who went on to roll the ball into the empty net before celebrating in front of the fans. After picking himself up, his beaten opponent was left cursing the moment of skulduggery.

A Sunderland representative told the Press Association that there was no animosity between the pair afterwards, adding that it was all in good spirits.

Meanwhile, fans online enjoyed the controversy.

“That blade of grass has caught a few out,” one social media user replied.